SOCCER THRILLS

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXXIV, Issue 22416, 25 August 1947, Page 2

SOCCER THRILLS

KIRK CUP FINAL EXTRA TIME NEEDED VICTORY TO WANDERERS By “Dribbler” An unprecedented display of Association football was presented district enthusiasts on Saturday when Wanderers and Eastern Union met in the final of the knock-out competition for the J, R. Kirk Cup. The game surpassed all expectations for thrills and good clean play and after a very even tussle Wanderers emerged the victors by three goals to two. Final Results. Seniors. —Wanderers 3 v. Eastern Union 2. Juniors. — P. and T. 3v. R.S.A. 0; Wanderers 2 v. Rovers 1. Extra Time Required The senior cup final commenced at a fast pace which, although not expected to last was maintained throughout the entire game. Eastern Union achieved an early lead when Bridge netted from a corner. The score was evened soon afterwards, however, when Wanderers were awarded a penalty, A. Twaddle making no mistake with the kick. Half-time came with the score unchanged. In the second spell the game developed into a dogged battle with both sides attacking and counter-attacking vigorously, but being repulsed repeatedly by excellent defensive play. Full time came with no addition to the scores and extra time was required. Wanderers took the lead in the first 10 minutes of this time when a long shot by D. Waugh was deflected into the net by a defending player. This lead was increased after the changeover when a cross from the right enabled Twaddle to break through and score his second goal. Undeterred, Eastern Union took the offensive and a successful shot by R. Huxtable lowered the deficit. The final whistle, however, gave the decision to Wanderers by three goals to two. Hockey and Rugby supporters, at the conclusion of their own games, swelled

the number of excited spectators on the side-lines. As a spectacle of skilful soccer, the game was the season’s best. The team work of both sides was good, but the ability of the Wanderers’ players to 1 keep the ball down gave them the edge on their opponents. The two defences were generally sound with Wanderers showing slight superiority in this division by relying on good placements rather than spectacular clearances to relieve pressure on their goal. The excellent form of several of the players should serve to make more difficult the task of the selector in choosing the representative team to play Wellington. The selector is to nominate 14 players to participate in a trial game next Saturday against a team from the Rest. Outstanding Performances The most conspicuous player on the field was K. Sewell who gave a tireless and versatile display to fill the inside lett and left back positions for Wanderers. His wing partner, M. Jury, showed quick penetration and crossed the ball nicety, while in the centre A. Twaddle was always dangerous in scoring movements. Great improvement was shown by M. Libeau at inside right. In the latter position. Jack Watt had too few opportunities to show his paces, but his centres spelled danger to the Eastern goal on every occasion he received the ball.

M. Gifford was the best of an outstanding trio of halves in which L. Foley and D. Waugh also impressed, while in the back division J. Dunsmore was a tower of strength until taking a forward position following an injury to his leg Archie Waugh intercepted well here also and in goal. C. Mulroonev was conspicuous for many splendid saves.

The latter's brother, Bill, occupied the opposing side’s goal and was Eastern Union's outstanding player, being beaten by unstoppable shots. He received good support from his backs, N. Burch and L Branson, with the latter covering up nicely. K. Walker was a useful attacking agent at centre Half and was flanked by two hardworking men in A. Flavell and W. Underdown.

Eastern’s right wing combination, J. Burns and J. J. Watts, showed clever understanding of each other’s play and in this manner penetrated deep into Wanderers’ territory. At centre-forward, E.- Bridge was a constant menace, his fast following up greatly troubling the opposing defence. 11. Monk toiled well at inside left and made several good openings while his wing partner, R. Huxtable, compensated for lack of dash by good positional play and centring. Rovers Juniors Defeated

Reauiring a win in their match with Wanderers on Saturday to retain their chance of winning the junior championship. Rovers were unsuccessful in a spirited bid and were defeated by two goals to one. Wanderers have thus consolidated their lead for, although P. and T. are at present level with them on Doints. thev have two games to the latter’s one to play and are practically assured of ultimate success. Scorers in the two junior games were Niven and Morrow for Wanderers and Grey for Rovers, Pepperill, Lamont and a defending player netting for P. and T. against R.S.A.